From Garden to Table, From Gili to Home
There are few people who embody the spirit of our sanctuary quite like Executive Chef Hari Govindaraj. Over the past 20 years, Chef Hari has shaped the island’s culinary identity through his passion for sustainability, wellness and exceptional plant-based cuisine.
To celebrate this milestone, we are proud to introduce Plant to Plate: Vegan Recipes from Gili Lankanfushi Maldives, the islands first-ever cookbook. Featuring over 60 recipes spanning breakfasts, starters, soups, salads, mains, desserts and signature drinks, Plant to Plate invites readers to recreate a taste of Gili at home. Highlights include Rainbow Root Ceviche, Gili Garden Green Gazpacho, Teriyaki Tofu Steak with Coriander Sticky Rice, Pan-Seared Radish Scallops and Caramel Pistachio Silk Cheesecake, alongside treasured recipes inspired by Chef Hari’s South Indian heritage.
“Plant to Plate is about making beautiful, wholesome food accessible to everyone. I want readers to feel confident in the kitchen and discover that some of the most memorable dishes come from the simplest ingredients.” – Chef Hari
Featuring stunning photography by Mel Yates and written in collaboration with author Katie Nicholl, the book captures the flavours, people and philosophy that make Gili so special. As our General Manager Rodrigo Buanafina reflects, Plant to Plate is a fitting celebration of Chef Hari’s extraordinary journey with the island and a wonderful way for guests to take a taste of the Gili experience home with them.
Available from October 2026 for USD 100, with 25% of profits donated to the Cancer Society of Maldives.
Ready to bring a taste of Gili life into your own kitchen? Pre-orders will be available soon.
Terms and conditions
Please contact your Mr./Ms. Friday for arrangement of this experience.
Other Happenings
Details September Curated Experiences
Discover a month of elevated island indulgence, where exceptional flavours and unforgettable experiences come together. Sip the whimsical Queen’s Garden cocktail, savour our exclusive By the Sea Hamachi specials, indulge in artisanal Parmesan Silk ice cream, and celebrate beneath the moonlight with our signature New Moon and Full Moon dining experiences.
Details October Exclusive Experiences
Discover a month of vibrant flavours, meaningful moments and island-inspired experiences. In support of Pink October, savour the exclusive By The Sea Chef’s Special, indulge in our Triple Berry and Hibiscus Ice Cream, and sip on the enchanting Faun Fizz Cocktail of the Month. From elegant New Moon and Full Moon dinners beneath the stars to a magical Halloween S’mores Bonfire, October promises unforgettable experiences in a truly enchanting setting.
Details Pink October 2026: Gili Stands in Pink
We invite you to join us as Gili Stands in Pink, celebrating awareness, wellbeing and the power of community. Through inspiring conversations, wellness activities, fundraising initiatives and meaningful moments of connection, discover thoughtful ways to celebrate resilience, foster hope and make a positive difference.